Laus Deo! The Worcester collection of sacred harmony
Subtitle: In three parts. Containing, I. An introduction to the grounds of musick: or, Rules for learners. II. A large number of celebrated psalm and hymn tunes, from the most approved ancient and modern authors; together with several new ones, never before published: the whole suited to all metres, usually sung in churches. III. Select anthems, fughes, and favourites pieces of music, with an additional number of psalm and hymn tunes. : The whole compiled for the use of schools, and singing societies. And recommended by many approved teachers of psalmody. : [One line from Psalms]
Series: Early American imprints -- no. 19752
Publisher: by Isaiah Thomas, and sold at his book-store. sold also by the booksellers in town and country.
Published: 1786
Place of publication: Printed, typographically, at Worcester, Massachusetts
Language: eng
Format: [microform] :
Number of pages: 200
Subjects: Psalmody; Music; Instruction and study
Other titles: Worcester collection of sacred harmony.
Notes: "The first music book printed typographically in America. ... Isaiah Thomas was probably the compiler, but no ostensible editor appears until the sixth edition, published in 1797, when Oliver Holden was engaged by Thomas to supervise that edition. It was the most popular music book of its period, and had numerous imitators."--Evans.

A limited number of copies containing parts I and II only were issued in January 1786 (cf. the Advertisement on verso of title page). The third part (p. [105]-200, with separate title page) has a prefatory note dated May 1786, and was advertised as "just published" in the Worcester magazine for the second week of May. Evans mistakenly reports that part III was not issued until 1787.

Signatures: pi² A-B⁴ C-Z² [2A]² 2B-2Z².

Evans 19752